Economy

The unemployment rate in Lincoln, Neb., is one of lowest in the U.S., thanks to a well-educated workforce. The focus now is on finding workers and keeping young people from leaving.

The U.S. economy has been doing well. That's pushed the value of the U.S. dollar up — relative to other currencies. A strong dollar sounds like good news, but there are winners and losers.

Wisconsin Republicans are fast-tracking a "right to work" bill to Gov. Scott Walker. The law aims to weaken private sector unions by letting employees opt out of paying dues.

In the U.S., possessing and selling marijuana is a federal crime, so banks have ignored this emerging market. In Canada, financial institutions are beginning to back corporate cannabis producers.

Some companies are using surveys or brain games to assess what kind of workers candidates are. Employers say the tests can help reduce turnover and surface talent recruiters might otherwise overlook.

New York's wage board is proposing a boost in the minimum wage for people who work for tips. Some restaurateurs say this could raise labor costs and force them to drop tipping and raise menu prices.